It is good to take valerian to calm anxiety, as it is a medicinal herb that has sedative and relaxing effects on the body and mind. Its consumption has become widespread and has been used for a long time as a remedy for anxiety and insomnia. However, it should be noted that there are some risks when taking valerian, so it must be done correctly.
Therefore, it is essential to have concrete and efficient data about the properties of valerian to relieve anxiety. In this Psychology-Online article, we tell you how to take valerian to calm anxietywhat steps to follow and when it is best to take it.
Is it good to take valerian for anxiety?
Valerian is an herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation. There are scientific studies that suggest that valerian may have mild effects on anxiety reduction.
It is important to note that the response to valerian can vary from person to person, and some may experience a significant improvement in their anxiety symptoms while others may not notice any effect. In cases where it is effective, it is good to take valerian for anxiety for the following reasons:
- sedative effect– Helps regulate sleep patterns, providing adequate and sustained rest for several hours.
- Anti-inflammatory: Valerian helps reduce symptoms such as headache and some body pains.
- Improves digestion: this natural remedy allows better digestion of the food consumed in the face of intestinal problems, such as difficulty absorbing nutrients and constipation,
- Regulates anxiety episodes: The properties of this infusion can help balance the central nervous system and calm anxiety.
If you want to know more, in this article, we explain all the .
Side effects of taking valerian for anxiety
While valerian is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses and for short periods, some people may experience side effects. They are usually mild and temporary, but it is important to be aware of them. The most common side effects of taking valerian are:
- Excessive sleepiness: Valerian has sedative properties and may cause drowsiness in some people, especially if combined with other psychiatric medications. For this reason, it is usually recommended to take it before bed if you want to improve the quality of your sleep.
- Dizziness: Another contraindication of valerian for anxiety is that it can cause dizziness or a feeling of lightheadedness after ingestion, especially when taken in higher doses.
- Stomach ache: In some cases, valerian may cause stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may manifest symptoms of allergies to specific products that alter the body. In these cases, taking valerian for anxiety is not recommended.
- Headache– Some people may experience headaches as a side effect of valerian for nerves.
How to take valerian for anxiety
If you are considering taking valerian for anxiety and your doctor has approved it, here are some general guidelines on how to take it to enhance its positive effects:
- Form of presentation– Valerian is usually available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, or herbal tea. You can choose the presentation that is most comfortable and easy for you to take.
- Dose: may vary depending on the product and the concentration of valerian. Always follow the instructions on the product packaging or your doctor’s recommendations. Typical doses of valerian for anxiety usually range between 300 and 900 mg per day.
- Time of intake: Valerian has relaxing and sedative properties, so it is common to take it before bed to help you fall asleep. However, some valerian products are formulated for daytime use and may help calm anxiety without causing drowsiness.
- Constancy: how long to take valerian for anxiety? The effects may not be immediate. It may require regular, consistent use over several days or weeks to notice significant improvement in anxiety.
- Interactions and precautions: Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid possible interactions. If you experience side effects or discomfort, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
How to prepare valerian infusion for anxiety
If you decide to use valerian to calm nerves and anxiety in the form of an infusion, we recommend follow these guidelines To prepare valerian for anxiety:
- Boil a cup of water and add the valerian extract.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes so that the water absorbs the natural properties of the plant.
- Take a maximum of 3 infusions daily.
- Consume it for 4 weeks. If after this period you do not experience an improvement in your symptoms, consult your doctor.
When should I not take valerian for anxiety
There are certain situations in which taking valerian for anxiety is not recommended. It is essential to take these precautions into account before using it:
- Pregnancy and lactation: There has not been enough research on the effects of valerian during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid its use at these stages.
- Valerian allergy: If you have experienced an allergic reaction to valerian in the past, you should not take it again.
- Driving or operating machinery: Valerian may cause drowsiness or affect the ability to concentrate in some people. If you experience sedative effects, avoid driving or engaging in activities that require mental alertness.
- Liver diseases– Valerian is processed in the liver, so people with liver disorders or liver disease should avoid its use or use it only under a doctor’s supervision.
- Interactions with other medications: Valerian may interact with certain medications, such as sedatives, tranquilizers, and . If you are taking other medications, it is important to consult a health professional before using valerian to avoid possible interactions.
- Renal problems: Although rare, valerian has been reported to cause kidney damage in some people. If you have kidney problems, it is better to avoid its use or talk to a doctor before taking it.
- Long term use: It is not recommended to take valerian for a long time without the supervision of a health professional. Long-term use may have adverse effects and may not be safe.
It should be noted that the consumption of valerian for anxiety reduces the symptoms but does not eliminate them completely. Therefore, severe anxiety states must be treated using other, more effective and safer methods.
What is better for anxiety, lime blossom or valerian?
There is no single answer as to what may be best for anxiety. varies depending on the person and their individual needs. Both lime (chamomile) and valerian are natural remedies that have been traditionally used to calm anxiety and promote relaxation.
Each one has different properties and effects, so it is important to consider their characteristics before deciding which one is better for anxiety:
- Linden (chamomile): It is known for its calming properties and its ability to mild. It is a gentle herb that can help you relax and relieve tension. It can be taken as chamomile tea before bed to promote sleep and also during the day to calm the nerves. Linden is especially helpful for occasional or situational anxiety.
- Valerian: It is another popular herb to calm anxiety and help you fall asleep. It has sedative properties and may be most effective in treating mild to moderate anxiety and insomnia problems.
It is important to note that both lime blossom and valerian are natural options and may not be as potent as prescription anxiety medications. Although both are effective against anxiety, it has been shown that valerian has a greater influence than linden. In this article you will find the best ones.
If you are dealing with persistent or severe anxiety, it is recommended seek professional guidance to receive a proper evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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Bibliography
- Ferrández Sanz, L. (2021). Efficacy and safety in the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety in humans. Human Nutrition and Dietetics. University of Alicante.
- Medina Ortiz, O., Sánchez-Mora, N., Fraguas Herraez, D., Arango López, C. (2008). Valerian in the long-term treatment of insomnia. Colombian Journal of Psychiatry, 37 (4), 614-626.